As it turns out, this odd discoloration has a perfectly normal explanation grounded in science. Dr. Vanessa MacKay from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists explains that the vagina has a natural self-cleaning process supported by healthy bacteria and secretions. These secretions are slightly acidic,

with a pH typically between 3.8 and 5.0, which can react with fabrics and cause those pale marks—completely unrelated to washing machines. According to experts, this is not only common but also a sign of a healthy vaginal environment. The takeaway? The more we understand our bodies—thanks in part to shared online knowledge—the better we can embrace what’s natural and normal.